Official State of Rhode Island website

State of Rhode Island Office of the Lieutenant Governor Sabina Matos

Youth Entrepreneurship Bootcamp 2026

Youth Learning & Leadership 

The Lt. Governor’s “Back to School, Back to Business!” Youth Entrepreneurship Boot Camp series is a free entrepreneurship education program for Rhode Island high school students in grades 9–12. Through hands-on activities led by local entrepreneurs and business coaches at the Diversity Business Exhibit and future locations across the state, students gain practical skills, mentorship, and exposure to entrepreneurship.

The Boot Camp series supports the state’s broader mission to strengthen the youth entrepreneurial ecosystem by connecting students with programs, mentors, resources, and opportunities that help them explore, launch, and grow their ideas. Through this initiative, the Boot Camps aim to:

  • Foster creativity, innovation, and problem-solving among youth.
  • Normalize entrepreneurship as a viable career pathway
  • Provide mentorship and tools that build confidence and leadership.
  • Cultivate a supportive community of young changemakers across business, civics, the arts, and social impact.

When and Where?

The Boot Camp will be held on Friday, September 11th, 2026, from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Rhode Island Convention Center in downtown Providence

Apply Now

Applications for the 2026 Lt. Governor’s "Back to School, Back to Business" Youth Entrepreneurship Boot Camp are open! Interested school administrators, educators, coaches, and youth program directors are encouraged to apply on behalf of youth in their classes or programs. Applicants may reserve up to 20 student spots, with rolling acceptance until capacity is reached or applications close on Friday, August 28, 2026. The application can be found online at https://diversitybusinessexhibit.com/youth-entrepreneurship-boot-camp/.

Diversity Business Exhibit

The Diversity Business Exhibit is an annual Providence-based conference of socially and economically disadvantaged micro entrepreneurs, small business owners, nonprofit leaders and creatives in Southern New England. The 2026 Diversity Business Exhibit will be held September 11th and 12th, 2026 at the Rhode Island Convention Center. More information is available at https://diversitybusinessexhibit.com.